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THE growing presence of Nigerian headline acts on major Ghanaian concert bills during the just-ended December in GH festivities has sparked debate within the creative industry, but veteran filmmaker and creative arts advocate Socrate Safo believes the conversation should be seen more as a smart business move than as cultural displacement.
However, Socrate Safo insists such concerns overlook the economic realities of today’s entertainment industry and the cross-border nature of modern African pop culture.
Key events on the December in GH calendar under the government’s flagship Black Star Experience, such as Taste of Culture, Ghana in Praise and other high-profile private concerts including AfroFuture drew massive crowds.
A notable feature of these shows was the dominance of Nigerian superstars on the main stages, with acts such as Burna Boy, Tiwa Savage, Patoranking, Ayra Starr, Asake and Davido leading performances at what many expected to be distinctly Ghanaian celebrations.
For some industry persons, such as Dancehall musician Ras Kuuku and singer/songwriter Kenkubii, the heavy Nigerian presence raises questions about opportunities for local artistes and the long-term positioning of Ghana’s creative identity.But in an interview with the Graphic Showbiz on Tuesday, 6, 2026, Socrate said the decision by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) and private promoters to feature top Nigerian acts was a calculated move designed to boost attendance, tourism receipts and international visibility for Ghana’s December festivities.
He argued that objections to Nigerians headlining Ghanaian shows were largely unfounded, stressing that their involvement actually expands the audience base beyond Ghana’s borders and attracts patrons who might otherwise not travel or attend.
Additionally, he noted that opening Ghanaian platforms to Nigerian stars created a reciprocal pathway for Ghanaian artistes to access stages outside the country, particularly in Nigeria’s vast and influential music market.
“There is nothing really wrong with bringing in foreign artistes because we also want our artistes to go beyond our shores. And for that to happen, we need to create that platform for others, too. I see nothing wrong with it. It’s a two-way street.
“All these events were attended by Nigerians too. By having their artistes perform, we are essentially inviting their fanbase to travel here. From a business perspective, it’s the right move. This synergy creates a regional hub that benefits everyone in the ecosystem, from hospitality providers to local vendors,” he added.
Beyond the debate over headline acts, the filmmaker commended the GTA and event organisers for the overall execution of the festivities, describing the December in GH programme as largely successful and impactful.
“I think it went well and I commend the organisers, especially the GTA. Yes, they did well,” he said.
However, he was quick to point out an operational challenge that, in his view, needs urgent attention if Ghana is to fully capitalise on its December momentum:
“My only challenge was how late they announced the policy. It needs to start earlier next year so travellers can prepare and airlines can adjust their operations,” he advised.
